[It's no surprise to hear that Toph knows others who are in the same position as she is--being a disgrace to the family, yet constitutionally unable to be what they demand. People like that find another fight to fight, searching for the pride they'll never have at home.

The conclusion Toph is walking herself to is... sad. It's deeply sad and there's no way around it, and Ethlyn is selfishly a little glad she doesn't have to put on her doctorly neutral face. It's hard enough for grown men and women to deal with it, much less a child of thirteen.

She reaches out, putting a hand on Toph's shoulder.]

I have friends in your position too. It doesn't matter where you are, or how brave or respected or old you are. It's hard, no matter what.